Ilocos Youth Explore Science for Sustainable Communities at DOST-NRCP Forum, Exhibit in 2025 NSTW
More than 1,000 young learners from various schools in Ilocos Norte took part in activities featuring community-focused and sustainability-driven research presented by the Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP) during the 2025 National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW), held on November 18–21 at the Centennial Arena in Laoag City.
As one of the participating agencies under DOST, NRCP held a forum and exhibit aligned with NSTW theme, “Building Smart and Sustainable Communities.” The Council showcased studies relevant to biodiversity and environmental conservation, sustainable urban planning, and public health, contributing to NSTW’s broader goal of promoting science that supports local and national development.
NRCP’s forum, “Jungle Trails to City Tales: Nature Meets Smart Science,” featured four (4) research in formats designed for elementary pupils and high school students on November 18. Four (4) NRCP researchers from the Council’s divisions were engaged in the forum. They have translated technical research into age-appropriate interactive discussions that connected scientific concepts to the realities of Region I communities, from changing coastlines to building smart and safe communities.
Dr. Lorenz Rhuel P. Ragasa of the Biological Sciences Division presented “Construction of DNA Barcode Reference Library for Pharmacologically Important Philippine Spiders from Theraphosidae and Lycosidae Families.” He explained how DNA barcoding enables the identification of spider species and the monitoring of ecosystems. For the youth, understanding biodiversity helps build awareness of local wildlife, strengthens interest in conservation science, and encourages responsible interaction with natural habitats.
Meanwhile, Mr. Jay T. Torrefiel of the Biological Sciences Division discussed “Human–Macaque Interface (HUMAIN): Mitigation of Conflicts and Zoonosis in Human-Modified Habitats.” The study introduces young learners to zoonosis prevention and responsible coexistence with wildlife.
Dr. Nikki Heherson A. Dagamac, also from the Biological Sciences Division, discussed Project MARVELS (Mangrove Diversity Research as a Vulnerable Ecosystem for La Union’s Sustainability). He presented the state of mangal in San Fernando City, La Union and highlighted how it protects coastal communities. The research helped young participants appreciate the role of mangroves in climate resilience and introduced them to community-based environmental stewardship.
From the Engineering and Industrial Research Division, Dr. Elmer P. Dadios presented “Sustainable Cities and Communities in the Philippines: Evaluation and Assessment Methods Using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG) Global Indicator Framework.” He showed how safer, greener, and more inclusive cities can be realized through research-driven plans. The study’s relevance to the youth lies in urban planning’s direct impact on mobility, recreation spaces, and overall well-being of young populations.
NRCP Executive Director Dr. Bernardo N. Sepeda underscored how early exposure to research shapes the perspectives of young people regarding their environment.
“Ang agham ay dapat ramdam. Para sa mga kabataan, ang agham ay applicable sa kanila upang sila ay mas maging capable sa paghubog ng kanilang kapaligiran at sustenableng kinabukasan,” he said.
In addition to the forum, NRCP conducted a four-day exhibit featuring the same studies, along with three (3) more projects intended for local government units, National Government Organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders. These included Dr. Richard V. Dumilag’s study, “The Making of San Bernardino Islands’ Cultural and Ecotourism,” which promoted community-led tourism management, Dr. Karen B. Alviar’s research “Effect of biofertilizer inoculation of soil on expression profile of defensin gene in maize and its subsequent effects on Peregrinus maidis Ashmead (Hemiptera:Delphacidae)” which highlighted how biofertilizer application enhances plant growth, and Dr. Roderick M. Napulan’s study, “Access to Primary Care Facilities and Services of Government Employees and Their Immediate Family,” which provided insights for improving better health service delivery.
A total of 1,510 participants composed of students, teachers, and local stakeholders visited and interacted with NRCP researchers during the exhibit, gaining exposure to scientific work that may influence future community planning, resource management, and public health programs.
NRCP’s participation in the 2025 NSTW served as an avenue to making research outputs more accessible and felt to communities and to supporting efforts that nurture scientifically informed, development-oriented young citizens. (Rose Dagupen//S&T Media Services)
Video highlights featuring the seven NRCP-funded research projects presented at the exhibit may be accessed through the link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/10nL_vpHHPVg5tEMguOOz_8Go1fk1fiuC?usp=drive_link
